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Jumbo the elephant versus Charles Bradlaugh
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Jumbo the elephant versus Charles Bradlaugh
Punch magazines comment on the unwelcome departure of the elephant Jumbo from England to America with P.T Barnum. Here Mr Punch suggests Barnum take an altogether different beast, the MP and atheist Charles Bradlaugh(caricatured as an incalcitrant wild boar), instead of the much loved Jumbo.
1882
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Media ID 23042152
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1882 Barnum Boar Bradlaugh Elephant Jumbo Nov17
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this intriguing and humorous 1882 print from Punch magazine, the unwelcome departure of Jumbo the elephant from England to America with P.T. Barnum is the subject of satire. The image depicts Barnum standing next to Jumbo, who is shown with a sad expression as he bids farewell to his British fans. In the background, Barnum is seen loading Jumbo onto a ship, ready for his journey across the Atlantic. However, the real surprise comes in the form of a suggestion from Mr. Punch himself. Instead of Jumbo, the caricatured caption urges Barnum to consider bringing a different beast to England – the MP and atheist Charles Bradlaugh, depicted as an incalcitrant wild boar. The caption reads, "Why not try this wild beast instead of Jumbo, Mr. Barnum? He's a regular Bradlaugh, and will draw just as big crowds!" Bradlaugh was a well-known figure in 1880s Britain, known for his outspoken atheism and political activism. His controversial views and confrontational style often made him a target for satire and ridicule in the press. In this print, Punch is poking fun at Barnum's decision to take Jumbo to America, suggesting that Bradlaugh would be just as entertaining, if not more so, for British audiences. The print's use of animal caricatures to highlight the perceived traits of Jumbo and Bradlaugh adds to its humorous appeal, and the contrast between the gentle, beloved elephant and the fiery, contentious MP makes for an amusing commentary on the political and social climate of the time. Overall, this print is a fascinating glimpse into the satirical world of Punch magazine and the popular culture of the late 19th century.
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